What You'll Find in Mormon Coulee Creek

Mormon Coulee Creek is a limestone spring creek that flows through the bluffs southeast of La Crosse before joining the La Crosse River. The water stays cool year-round because of groundwater input, which makes it one of the more reliable smallmouth bass streams in the region. You'll also find walleye in the lower sections where the creek widens and deepens, along with rock bass, sunfish, and the occasional channel catfish in slower pools.

The creek runs roughly 20 miles from its source near the town of Bangor down to its confluence with the La Crosse River. The upper reaches are narrow and fast, better suited to wading and short casts. The middle and lower sections open up and hold deeper holes where larger fish rest during the day. The entire stream flows through private land, so access points matter—you can't simply park and walk upstream.

Key Takeaways

  • Mormon Coulee Creek holds smallmouth bass year-round and walleye in lower sections, with water temperatures stable because of limestone springs.
  • Public access is limited to a few established parking areas and bridge crossings; most of the creek runs through private property.
  • Spring and fall are the most reliable seasons for smallmouth; summer requires early morning or evening fishing as water warms.
  • Spinning gear with small crankbaits, soft plastics, and live crawfish work well for smallmouth; walleye respond to live shiners and jigs in deeper pools.

Where to Access the Creek

The most reliable public access is at the bridge crossing on County Road N, roughly 8 miles southeast of La Crosse near the town of Bangor. This spot gives you room to park and wade upstream or downstream. The creek is wadeable here and the current is moderate, making it a good entry point if you're new to the stream.

Another access point exists where Mormon Coulee Road crosses the creek, though parking is limited to roadside pull-offs. A third option is near the confluence with the La Crosse River, accessible from the La Crosse River State Trail parking area. From there you can walk downstream to where the two waters meet. Always ask permission before crossing private land, and respect posted property lines—most landowners along this creek are protective of access.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing Through the Seasons

Spring (April through May) is when smallmouth move shallow to spawn and feed aggressively. Fish the rocky banks and current breaks with small crankbaits in the 2- to 3-inch range, or soft plastics rigged on light jig heads. The water is cold but clear, so match the hatch with crawfish-pattern lures. Early morning produces better than midday.

Summer (June through August) pushes smallmouth into deeper pools and under overhanging brush. The water warms to the mid-60s, which is still cool for a spring creek but warm enough to slow the bite during daylight. Fish early and late, or focus on shaded areas and current breaks where water stays cooler. Live crawfish under a bobber works when artificial lures slow down.

Fall (September through October) brings another aggressive feeding period as water cools again. Smallmouth move back to shallower structure and feed heavily before winter. This is often the best time to catch numbers and size. Repeat the spring patterns—crankbaits and soft plastics in crawfish colors.

Winter (November through March) slows the bite significantly. The creek doesn't freeze solid in most years, but water temperatures drop to the low 40s. Fish move to the deepest pools and feed infrequently. If you fish winter, focus on the lower sections where the creek is deepest, and use live bait fished slowly on the bottom.

Walleye in the Lower Sections

Walleye show up in Mormon Coulee Creek below the County Road N bridge, where the creek widens and the current slows. These are not abundant fish—this is not a walleye factory—but they are present and worth targeting if you're already on the water. The best approach is to fish at dusk or after dark with live shiners or small minnows on a slip sinker rig, working the deeper holes and outside bends.

Jigs tipped with live crawfish or shiners also work, especially in spring and fall when walleye move shallower. Summer walleye retreat to the deepest pools and are harder to locate. The lower creek near the La Crosse River confluence holds the most consistent walleye population, though numbers are modest compared to the main river.

Gear and Tackle That Works

For smallmouth, a 6- to 6.5-foot spinning rod with 6- to 8-pound braided line is ideal. Braided line gives you better feel in current and lets you work lures more precisely in tight spaces. Crankbaits in the 2- to 3-inch range, soft plastics (4-inch tubes and creature baits), and small spinnerbaits all catch fish. Crawfish patterns and natural colors outfish bright ones on this clear water.

For walleye, step up to 8- to 10-pound line and use live bait rigs or jigs. A slip sinker rig with a live shiner on a size 2 or 4 hook works well in deeper pools. Jigs in the 1/8- to 1/4-ounce range, tipped with live crawfish or minnows, let you work the bottom without snagging constantly on rocks.

What Makes Mormon Coulee Creek Different

The limestone geology that feeds this creek keeps water temperature stable and clear year-round. That stability attracts smallmouth and makes the creek fishable even when other regional streams are too warm or too murky. The downside is that the water is often very clear, which means fish can see you—wade carefully and use longer casts than you might on a murkier stream.

The creek's small size means you're never far from structure. Every bend, every undercut bank, every pile of rocks holds fish. This makes it rewarding for anglers who like to read water and make precise casts. It's not a place to throw and retrieve mindlessly; it rewards attention and technique.

Regulations and Seasonal Closures

Wisconsin's statewide smallmouth bass season runs year-round with a daily limit of five fish. The minimum size is 12 inches. Walleye season is more restricted—check the current Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources regulations before you fish, as walleye seasons vary by water body and can open and close at different times than the main La Crosse River.

Some sections of Mormon Coulee Creek may have special regulations or seasonal closures to protect spawning habitat. The DNR website lists these by stream name and section. It's worth checking before you plan a trip, especially in spring when spawning closures are most common.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Mormon Coulee Creek year-round?

Yes, smallmouth bass season is open year-round in Wisconsin. Walleye season varies—check the DNR website for current dates, as some sections may be closed during spawning season in spring. Winter fishing is possible but slow.

Is the creek safe to wade?

Most sections are wadeable, but current can be strong after heavy rain. Wear a wading belt and felt-soled boots for traction on slippery rocks. The creek bottom is rocky and uneven, so watch your footing. Water temperature stays cold even in summer, so consider a wetsuit in early spring and fall.

What's the best time of year to fish here?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are most reliable for consistent action and larger fish. Summer requires early morning or evening fishing. Winter is slow but possible if you target deep pools with live bait.

Do I need a boat or can I wade the whole creek?

The entire creek is wadeable. A boat is not necessary and would be difficult to launch on this small stream. Wading is the standard approach, and it gives you better access to structure and lets you cover water efficiently.

Are there any other fish species worth targeting?

Rock bass and sunfish are abundant and fun on light tackle. Channel catfish inhabit slower pools, especially in summer and fall, and respond to live crawfish or cut bait fished on the bottom at dusk. These aren't the main draw, but they provide action when smallmouth slow down.